The WCoBM reaffirmed its support for training and education of builders’ merchants by sponsoring the ‘Practical Building Skills Challenge Event’ on 24th October 2012, organised by the Institute of Builders’ Merchants (IoBM).
The Master presented a cheque of £500 in support of the event to the President of the IoBM Andrew Pine. Accompanying the Master was Almoner Andrew Adams, Liveryman and Governor of the Institute Roger Crees, and Liveryman David Saunders. Held at Derby College, teams of four from Travis Perkins, E H Smith, Didac and J A Stephens were challenged against the clock to build a brick & block wall, hang a door & fit associated ironmongery, plaster & skim, and paint up a symmetrical design. The aim of the day is to help merchants gain practical experience of products they deal with on a daily basis, as well as increase product knowledge, enhance confidence and team building, and improve sales and service capabilities.
It was a close call between winning team J A Stephens and runners up Travis Perkins, with only one point between them. Prizes were presented by Andrew Pine. The Master Andrew Day comments: “Our sponsorship of the IoBM Practical Building Skills Event is one example of how the Livery supports training and education in the builders’ merchants industry. It is one of the Company’s core aims and very important to us.”
